ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – Representing the Eastern Visayas region in a nationwide fair’s vocal competition, five student-artists from Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) participated in the Voz: Quintet Vocal Competition as part of the SUC Fair 2024, held at the KCC Mall de Zamboanga, July 9.
The delegation included selected members of the EVSU Chorale: Jade Delima, Mylje Rodriguez, Cyrus Kempt Aque, Marvin Edara, and Jordan Cocollo, coached by EVSU’s Director for Culture and the Arts Dr. Biato Ambe Jr., and Prof. Jerry Mores, the university’s head for Culture and the Arts.
Cyrus Kempt Aque, a performer in the vocal team, expressed appreciation for competing with singers from across the various SUCs in the country and admitted feeling nervous due to the high level of competition.
“It was nice competing with the very talented singers in every region. Of course, we were very nervous because of how good the other competitors were. Even though we somehow felt frustrated because we didn’t make it [into the Top 3], we’re still proud that we did our best in that competition,” he said.
Additionally, Mylje Rodriguez, also one of the performers, shared the challenges their team faced after the competition guidelines changed 10 days prior to the event.
“Very confident na kami kay makusog talaga dapat an kamada. The arrangement song is bomb, naangay ha amon lineup, ngan may powerful kami na soloist para kantahon an piece, pero sadly ginbago an song list na ada ha guidelines nga apot na, since 10 days before the competition hira nag-notice. Also, diri naangay ha amon an song na aada ha guidelines, hopeless talaga kami kaduro, pero maupay na la natawid namon an performance,” she shared.
The said annual fair, organized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and hosted by Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), brought together 100 State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) from across the country’s 16 regions to showcase their products, innovations, and student talents.
During the opening ceremony, WMSU President Dr. Ma. Carla A. Ochotorena emphasized in her welcome message the fair’s significance in celebrating academic achievements, cultural heritage, and innovation.
“We celebrate not only our academic achievements, but also our rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. This platform provides an invaluable opportunity to showcase our distinctive products, pioneering innovations, and the diverse talents and skills of our students and faculty from across the nation,” Dr. Ochotorena said.
Anchored on the theme “Weaving Culture and Innovations for a Transformative, Resilient, and Globally-Recognized Philippine Higher Education,” the said fair ran from July 9-11, featuring a wide array of exhibits and talent competitions.
Article by Alrey Lacaba